Editor’s note: Gary Farrall, of Erie, IL, submitted this personal account of internet scammers.
A new group of scammers are working the Internet, [using] very polished delivery of false information and actions–including fake pages of information. An aunt in Canada, myself, and a handful of Erie, IL, acquaintances have all been hit–some successfully.
What is the process?
You are working along [on your computer, when] a popup message states you are being attacked by hackers, and you need to call the number provided to prevent losing your data, or worse. (Only one acquaintance got the “or worse.” He disc was cleaned of all data!) At this point, you may be experiencing a variety of on-screen disturbances to prove their point. Should you call the number, the voices you hear are from either South-Central Asia or China.
- They say they work on behalf of Microsoft, who has no technicians employed. (A lie.)
- They will purge your system of any viruses, clean up your system, and install preventative software for a fee. You are offered several plans to choose from and [told] the associated fee. (In truth, computer users can install their own preventative software.)
- They state they get a message when any of Microsoft’s Operating Systems are in jeopardy. (A lie.)
What happens if I accept the clean-up and software offer?
The “cleaning” operation takes HOURS! They [remotely] take control of your computer–if you allow it. It is kind of like Dracula not entering the house of his victim, because he has not been invited in. This is the “setup phase.”
Weeks later, you get another call asking if you remember them cleaning your computer. They inform you they have a refund for you, because they are losing their license. (A lie.) They display a [computer] screen supposedly detailing Microsoft’s refund program. There is also a screen showing which bank the funds will come from and the amount in [that] account.
Next, they want access to YOUR bank, [in order] for a bank to transfer funds [to you]. Here is where they spring the trap.
Their bank only allows the dispensing of funds in $1000 increments. Your refund is less than this.
So, you will have to MoneyGram them back the excess funds. (Now, if they can use MoneyGram [to receive the excess refund money from you, why can they not send you the refund by Money Gram?)
There never is a transfer of funds to you[r account.] Again, a false screen display is put up, [showing] your bank account with an increased balance [from their supposed refund]. (A lie.)
If you send them a MoneyGram, they got you! They have stolen money from your account.